Lescott absence is blamed on injury as Redknapp denies making Bassong bid
EVERTON boss David Moyes last night played down speculation over Joleon Lescott’s future at the club after the England defender was absent from yesterday’s friendly at Coventry.
Lescott is at the centre of an intense public pursuit by Manchester City, who are reportedly ready to table an offer of around £22m for the 26-year-old this week after having two previous bids rejected by the Toffees.
Lescott’s omission from yesterday’s squad only intensified the speculation further but Moyes later insisted he missed the 2-2 draw with a hip injury, before refusing to answer any more questions on the matter.
Moyes does not want to Lescott to leave but it is feared he may be unable to stop the move going through. Indeed, already he is being linked with a possible replacement in Toulouse’s Albin Ebondo.
Meanwhile, Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp has dismissed reports he has bid £10m for Newcastle defender Sebastien Bassong, although he admits to admiring the player.
Speaking of the rumour after his side’s 2-0 defeat to South China, Redknapp said: “It is not true. He is a player that I was interested in. I like Bassong, he is a young player with a good future and a good central defender. I don’t think we have made an offer as far as I know. I am sure the chairman has not made an offer.”